Build confidence driving on the motorway
Driving on the motorway is an important skill for many UK drivers. It can feel daunting at first, particularly if you're new to driving or haven't used motorways before.
Motorway lessons with an AutoPilot instructor can help you become familiar with motorway driving in a calm, structured way while building confidence on faster roads.
Instructors to help you gain motorway experience
AutoPilot instructors can support you as you develop your motorway driving skills. With guidance and practice, you can learn how to handle motorway traffic safely and confidently.
Whether you're preparing for your first motorway journey or would simply like more experience, you can search for an AutoPilot instructor near you.
Can learners drive on the motorway?
Yes. Since June 2018, learner drivers in England, Scotland and Wales have been allowed to take motorway lessons.
However, motorway driving lessons must:
- Be taken with a qualified driving instructor
- Be in a dual-controlled vehicle
Learners in Northern Ireland are currently not permitted to drive on motorways.
Can I take motorway lessons after passing my test?
Yes. Motorway lessons are available to anyone who holds a full driving licence.
Some drivers may not have much motorway experience after passing their test, particularly if they live in areas where motorways are less common. Refresher motorway lessons can help drivers build confidence and practise motorway skills with an instructor.
How can I stay safe when driving on the motorway?
Remaining calm and focused is important when driving on motorways, where traffic may be travelling at higher speeds.
Many drivers will already have experience on dual carriageways before driving on a motorway, and motorway lessons can help you build on these skills with support from your instructor.
Which lane should I drive in?
Unless you are overtaking, you should normally drive in the left-hand lane.
Motorways have a left-hand lane and overtaking lanes. The right-hand lanes should only be used when overtaking slower vehicles or when directed by road signs.
Driving unnecessarily in the middle lane (sometimes called "middle-lane hogging") can be considered careless driving and may result in a fine and penalty points.
What is the motorway speed limit?
For most vehicles, the national speed limit on motorways is 70 mph.
However, lower speed limits may apply in certain situations, such as:
- Roadworks
- Congestion
- Poor weather conditions
Always follow the speed limits shown on motorway signs and adjust your speed to suit road conditions.
How much distance should I leave between vehicles?
At motorway speeds it can be harder to judge braking distances, so maintaining a safe following distance is important.
Drivers are generally advised to leave at least a two-second gap between their vehicle and the one in front.
In wet or poor weather conditions, you should increase this distance to allow more time to react and stop safely.
Motorway driving lessons near me
Wherever you are in the UK, you shouldn't be too far from our network of expert instructors. Popular locations include Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Leeds, Leicester, Liverpool, London, Manchester, Nottingham and Sheffield.
Find an instructor